Direct Support Professional – Slippery Rock, PA

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Position Requirements:

• A verifiable high school diploma or GED is required.
• A current and valid driver’s license is required
• Age 18 or older

Related experience is helpful.

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with developmental, intellectual, or physical disabilities by providing compassionate and personalized support. This position focuses on assisting individuals in achieving greater independence, community integration, and personal growth through tailored care and encouragement. The DSP will work closely with clients to support their daily living activities, promote skill development, and ensure their health and safety in a respectful and dignified manner. Collaboration with families, healthcare providers, and other team members is essential to create and implement individualized support plans that meet each person’s unique needs. Ultimately, the DSP contributes to fostering an inclusive environment where clients feel valued, empowered, and supported in reaching their fullest potential.

Job Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with daily living activities such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, and mobility support.
• Implement individualized care plans and support goals designed to promote independence and community participation.
• Monitor and document client progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or well-being, communicating effectively with supervisors and healthcare professionals.
• Provide emotional support and encouragement to clients, fostering positive relationships and promoting social engagement.
• Ensure a safe, clean, and supportive environment by adhering to all health, safety, and regulatory guidelines.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to pass background checks and any required health screenings.
• Basic understanding of caregiving principles and a genuine interest in supporting individuals with disabilities.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Physical ability to assist clients with mobility and daily tasks as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working as a Direct Support Professional or in a related caregiving role.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Training or coursework related to developmental disabilities or behavioral support.
• Familiarity with community resources and services for individuals with disabilities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, or holidays if required.

Skills

In daily work, the Direct Support Professional utilizes strong interpersonal and communication skills to build trust and rapport with clients, ensuring their needs and preferences are understood and respected. Problem-solving and observational skills are essential for identifying changes in client behavior or health and responding appropriately. Time management and organizational skills help the DSP effectively balance multiple responsibilities, including documentation and care tasks. Empathy and patience are critical in providing emotional support and encouragement, fostering a positive and empowering environment. Additionally, physical stamina and practical caregiving skills are applied regularly to assist clients safely with mobility and personal care activities.

Benefits

Merakey offers competitive compensation plans and more!

• DailyPay
• Work/Life Balance
• Flexible Schedules
• Cell Phone Discount Plans
• Employee Referral Bonuses

About Merakey

Merakey is a non-profit provider of developmental, behavioral health, and education services. More than 8,000 employees provide support to nearly 40,000 individuals and families throughout 12 states across the country each year. Click here to watch a video about Merakey. Merakey strictly follows a zero-tolerance policy for abuse.

Merakey is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer! We deeply value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ethnic background, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or disability status. Moreover, we are committed to creating teams that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and encourage applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. Merakey welcomes all Veterans to apply!